Nubia has officially launched the iMoochi in China, an AI-powered pet robot designed for emotional companionship rather than standard voice assistant tasks.
First teased by ZTE at MWC 2026, the device is now available starting at 1,699 yuan ($250), or 1,778 yuan ($262) bundled with a cloud-shaped charging dock.
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Design and Hardware
The iMoochi features a plush, skin-friendly exterior with a durable silicone face mask.
Its eyes are dual OLED displays that render dynamic facial expressions and use under-display sensors to automatically adjust brightness based on ambient lighting.
Inside, stepper motors allow the robot to nod, shake its head, and wag its tail in response to user interactions.
Interaction and AI
Interaction is driven by physical sensors and an emotion-understanding AI model.
The iMoochi has five touch sensors on its head, back, nose, and feet, along with a six-axis inertial sensor that detects when it is lifted, shaken, or carried.
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Multiple microphones enable directional sound detection, allowing the robot to physically react to where a voice is coming from.
The AI model analyzes both the semantic meaning and emotional context of conversations.
It uses voiceprint recognition to identify its primary owner, building a familiarity score and interaction history over time.
To avoid the uncanny valley effect, Nubia opted for a custom iMoochi language developed with professional voice actors.
The audio profile consists mostly of pet-like vocalizations, purrs, and giggles.
The software simulates a daily rhythm, prompting the robot to yawn, react to temperature changes, or initiate play sessions autonomously.
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Connectivity and Battery
The iMoochi includes built-in Wi-Fi and 4G network support, with a period of 4G data service included with the purchase.
It also features NFC for tap-to-connect interactions with other iMoochi units.
The internal battery is rated for 8 to 10 hours of use per charge.
App and Accessories
The device pairs with the iMoochi Life mobile app, which lets users track companionship duration, monitor the robot's emotional status, and save interaction records.
The pet comes in three colors: Brown, Pink, and White. The standard box includes a charging cable, protective cover, comb, eye mask, and a birth certificate card.
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Nubia is also selling optional interactive outfits that unlock specific visual effects and expressions on the OLED displays.
